By Haley Scarpino
There’s something irresistibly charming about an ice cream social. Once the domain of church basements and block parties, it remains one of the most welcoming ways to bring people together, especially in the summer, because it’s casual and easy to love.
The build-your-own sundae bar is unfussy by nature, endlessly customizable and just as good for a kid’s birthday party as it is for a low-key backyard hang or a dinner party that ditches formal dessert in favor of sprinkles and spontaneity.
Choose your base
The most important part of an ice cream social is, of course, the ice cream. There are endless options for ice cream at the grocery store, and a lot of them are great, but it can be overwhelming to know which brand to choose.
However, I consider myself a bit of an expert, based solely on my deep love for ice cream. Some of my favorite brands are Tillamook, Talenti, Ben & Jerry’s and Van Leeuwen. Depending on how many people you have, choose three to five ice cream flavors, balancing classics like vanilla and chocolate with a few unexpected flavors. There are so many great options these days, so pick one or two you love.
If you’re going to set up outside, keep the ice cream cold in coolers of ice and sprinkle the ice with salt to keep it frozen for longer.
Prep the toppings
Toppings are what elevate a sundae bar from simple to showstopping. To satisfy every craving, think in terms of texture and flavor.
Crunchy elements — crushed cookies, pretzels, salty nuts or even cereal — complement the soft ice cream. No need to overthink it: A few bowls of contrasting flavors and textures are all you need.
Fruit toppings add brightness and balance. Macerated berries bring juiciness and tang, while jarred peaches or mango chunks add natural sweetness with a bit of depth.
On the saucy side, you can’t go wrong with the classics — hot fudge, caramel and berry compote — but a brown butter-honey drizzle or spoonful of cookie butter can take the spread to the next level.
Try a savory twist with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. And for an easy throwback trick, mix melted chocolate with a little coconut oil for a quick “magic shell” that hardens on contact.
Set the scene
A well-organized assembly line makes the sundae bar feel intentional and inviting. Use muffin tins or small bowls to manage toppings. Offer cones or disposable cups for easy serving, or go with vintage sundae glasses to class it up.
Make sure each tub of ice cream has its own scoop and a landing spot. For a thoughtful finishing touch, consider printing mini menus or topping suggestions to inspire guests who might feel overwhelmed (in the best way) by all the options.
Include everyone
If you know you’ll have a dairy-free or gluten-free guest, be sure to offer at least one option that fits their needs and label it clearly so they don’t have to ask. Several brands, Van Leeuwen and Ben & Jerry’s, make excellent dairy-free pints that hold their own next to the classics.
For toppings, offer a few nut-free crunchy options, like pretzels, toasted seeds or cereal. With a little planning, everyone gets a bowl they’re excited about.
Set the vibe
Whether you’re hosting in the backyard, on a balcony or in the kitchen, the right atmosphere can make all the difference. String up lights or set out tea candles for evening gatherings, create a playlist with warm-weather energy, and add a little color with napkins, bowls or a striped tablecloth. It doesn’t need to be over-styled, just thoughtful enough to make the whole thing feel special.
Offer suggestions
If your guests need a little inspiration, offer a few suggested sundae combinations. These are three of my favorite flavor combinations.
Chocolate-peanut butter is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser: chocolate ice cream topped with crushed peanut butter cups, salted peanuts and a drizzle of hot fudge.
A chocolate-raspberry sundae is a little brighter: vanilla or chocolate ice cream, magic shell, fresh raspberries and a spoonful of raspberry compote.
And for something rich with a little crunch, a coffee-toffee sundae: coffee ice cream topped with toffee bits, a caramel drizzle, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Keep it fun
The beauty of a sundae bar is that it’s meant to be fun, not flawless. Don’t worry about picture-perfect scoops; this is about laid-back fun and giving people the chance to build something they genuinely want to eat.
A few good pints, some delicious toppings, and a relaxed setup are all you need to make any day a Sundae fun day. Keep it casual, keep it generous and let the ice cream do the rest.
Haley Scarpino is a chef, recipe tester, food editor and graduate of DMACC’s Iowa Culinary Institute.
